Nimitz Highlighted in PBS TV Series and Premiere

NORTH ISLAND, Calif. (NNS) -- The Navy hosted a TV documentary series premiere, which highlights life aboard an aircraft carrier, at Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI). Military members and their families attended the free premiere of the film "Carrier," at NASNI's base theater, April 20.

The documentary revealed what daily life is like aboard USS Nimitz (CVN 68), during a six-month deployment to the Pacific and Persian Gulf, in support of the war on terrorism.

"It was a very intense and exciting experience, and I think this documentary is going to help people in San Diego to have an idea of what's going on with their loved ones while they are deployed," said Alison St. John, KPBS news reporter.

In May 2005, the Navy approved Carrier Project Inc. and Icon Productions to embark aboard Nimitz to produce a documentary about the people and equipment of a Navy strike group.

"We set up story booths all over the ship for Sailors to share their experiences in front of the camera, and we captured the diverse perspectives of various personnel on film," said Maro Chermayeff, "Carrier" series co-creator, director, executive and producer.

The Navy permitted the production company access to the ship and supporting commands of Carrier Strike Group 11, with the exception of classified and restricted areas.

"I really enjoyed this first episode, and I definitely will recommend it to everyone that wants to know how the real Navy is," said Aerographer's Mate 2nd Class (SW) Katheryn Roe, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, San Diego.

A panel discussion featuring the producer and other individuals who helped make the film followed the premiere. Additionally, Rear Adm. Ted N. "Twig" Branch, former commanding officer of Nimitz, joined the event as a special guest.

"The show will be positive for the Navy," said Branch. "It will be a really good opportunity to show young Sailors and Marines doing great things, every day, for the Navy and the nation."

Public Broadcasting System (PBS) has scheduled to air for television the 10-part series of "Carrier," from April 27 to May 1.

For more information on the Nimitz deployment and coverage, visit www.navy.mil.

For more news from Navy Region Southwest, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnrsw/.